Turkey Sees Malaysia As Natural Partner For Global Humanitarian Work

By Shakir Husain NEW DELHI, April 29 (Bernama) -- Turkey looks at Malaysia as a natural partner for carrying out humanitarian work in the areas hit by conflicts and natural disasters. The goodwill and understanding between Malaysia and Turkey create ideal conditions for the two countries to increase their cooperation in delivering aid to the needy, said Ilnur Cevik, a senior advisor to Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. "We have been friends and allies since the Ottoman period. Turkey cherishes what Malaysia does in Africa (through humanitarian projects) and we want to cooperate more in this area," Cevik told Bernama in an interview here. He said Turkey has been engaged for a long time in helping drought-hit Somalia and there is scope for the two countries to join hands to help Somalis and other people in Africa affected by natural calamities and violent conflicts. Cevik said Turkey also wants greater involvement of other countries to help the millions of Syrian refugees fleeing the war. "Turkey has spent US$25 billion in five years on helping Syrian refugees. We will look after the needy anywhere in the world. That's how we practise Islam," he said. "We are not satisfied with the international community. The UN has until now given only $500 million. Compared with what we are doing, it's chicken-feed. The European Union promised 3 billion euros, but they have given only 700 million euros," Cevik said. Turkey hosts about three million Syrian refugees and is also helping Syrian war victims in the border regions. While criticising growing xenophobia and racism in Europe, Cevik praised Malaysia's success in achieving peace and prosperity in a multiracial environment. "Malaysia has shown the character of an Islamic coexistence. What Malaysia has is a good model for all European countries to copy," he said. On the plight of Rohingya people, Cevik said Malaysia and Turkey should work together to help those facing repression in Myanmar. "There is discrimination in Myanmar. These people in Arakan (Rakhine state) are in great danger. We can do a lot together to help them," he said. --BERNAMA